How to Pick a Cruise Travel Advisor
2026-08-17
Consider using a planner for your next vacation at sea.
If you’ve ever planned a cruise, you know there are plenty of moving parts. First, you’ll need to decide where you want to go. Next, you’ll choose which cruise line or ship is best for you, followed by the right cabin option and the ideal shore excursions. If the cruise isn’t totally inclusive, you’ll need to think about drink packages and whether you want to pre-book some specialty dining options. And don’t forget to arrange any necessary flights or hotel stays before you set sail. By the time you get everything booked and start your cruise packing list, you may really need a vacation.
Thankfully, organizing your trip through a cruise travel advisor can eliminate some of this stress. According to the Cruise Lines International Association’s 2025 industry report, 63% of cruisers used a travel advisor when booking a cruise over the past year. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned professional, utilizing a cruise travel planner can provide an array of benefits.
What is a cruise travel advisor?
A cruise travel advisor is a professional planner who can help you organize and book a trip on the high seas. They are not employed by the cruise line itself; instead, they operate through independent agencies.
Travel advisors focus on the total picture of your cruise, providing guidance on which cruise lines are best suited to your travel style, which staterooms you may prefer and the best excursions or onboard experiences for you. (Note: The terms “travel advisor” and “travel agent” may be used interchangeably.)
Why should I use a cruise travel advisor?
Utilizing a cruise advisor is an excellent way to receive unbiased, individualized attention and enjoy extra perks on your voyage. Cruise travel advisors typically have tons of insider knowledge about the different cruise lines, so they’ll be able to answer all of your questions and offer unique tips. They can arrange your trip from start to finish, including figuring out any necessary flights or pre-cruise hotel stays.
On top of that, they can offer special incentives like onboard credits, free specialty dining, beverage package discounts and other perks that may not be available to the general public. A cruise planner can also be helpful if you are traveling with a large family or group and want to organize connecting rooms.
If anything should go wrong with your cruise, your travel advisor can act as your own personal advocate to remedy the issue – one less headache for you as the traveler. They can also easily handle price adjustments should the fares on your cruise drop after you’ve already booked.
Who pays cruise travel advisors?
If you are worried that using a cruise advisor will cost you extra money, fear not: cruisers typically won’t have to pay for a travel advisor’s services. Instead, agents receive commissions on their bookings directly from the cruise lines (often a month or two before their client’s sailing, or once the cruise line receives the passenger’s final payment).
Keep in mind that some more bespoke planning companies may require a small fee – be sure to inquire about any costs upfront before working with them on a booking.
How to find a cruise travel advisor
When searching for the perfect cruise agent, you should consider reputable companies of different sizes to determine what works best for you. Some cruisers utilize the services of large-volume brands, which typically provide more standardized service and convenient availability. Others prefer to enlist the help of small local agencies where the owners themselves are present and involved.
Consider the following popular companies when choosing a cruise planner:
- Expedia Cruises
- Costco Travel
- AAA Vacations
- Abercrombie & Kent
- Vacations To Go
- CruiseDirect
- CruisesOnly
- Virtuoso Advisors
